up."

And he took his lantern.

"Good night, gentlemen."

"Stop--wait for me," cried Gideon. "I can see Fritz is sleepy; we will go
down together."

"Very gladly, Sperver; on our way we will have a word with Trumpf, the
butler. He is downstairs with the rest, and Knapwurst is telling them
tales."

"All right. Good night, Fritz."

"Good night, Gideon. Don't forget to send for me if the count is taken
worse."

"I will do as you wish. Lieverlé, come."

They went out, and as they were crossing the platform I could hear the
Nideck clock strike eleven. I was tired out and soon fell asleep.




CHAPTER IV.


Daylight was beginning to tinge with bluish grey the only window in my